WOLFVILLE, N.S. - The Axewomen volleyball team one giant step forward despite losing 3-0 to the AUS defending champion Dalhousie Tigers. While the first set shook off some opening night jitters with a 25-14 loss, Acadia rebounded with a strong second game, pushing the Tigers to a 30-28 win over Acadia.

Head Coach Michelle Wood was pleased with the team's performance and effort despite the loss. "We are very happy with the way the girls competed tonight. The team did a great job following the game plan, however our inexperience did get the best of us in pressure situations. In saying that, our group has been working very hard in training and the development was noticeable today".

High pressure errors were apparent in the team's second set loss. Ahead 22-20 in the second set, several unforced errors allowed the Tigers to grab the lead and win.

Tied at 10-10 in the eventual final set, Dalhousie stretched the lead to 20-15, closing the third set 25-18.

Desiree Nouwen, named the Subway Player of the Game, had a match high of 13 kills and a .290 hitting percentage. The turning point for the Axewomen was making too many unforced errors in the 20 points and above range.

Several young players showed great confidence in their play and coach Wood expects several players to help shape the future of the program. "As a first year attacker, I believe Sarah Ross got the attention of her opponents today. Marissa Chin, a second year Axewomen, served very aggressively and veteral Meg Rector was a threat in the front row which held the blockers opening up the opportunity for our other attackers to be successful. It was a combined effort by all".

Veterans Kristen Bolduc and Meg Rector led Acadia with 7 kills each while rookie Sarah Ross added six.

The Axewomen opened the season against the defending champion Dalhousie and now will prepare for their second match against Saint Mary's next Wednesday night.